The Beauty of the Victoria Falls Rainforest

There is something almost supernaturally beautiful about the Victoria Falls rainforest in the southern African nation of Zimbabwe.

In the shadow of the majestic Victoria Falls it rains continuously, supporting the growth of rich and diverse plants that grow here. An aerial view from far above the Victoria Falls clearly shows a thick border of greenery on the Zimbabwe side of the Main Falls. A magnificent natural ecosystem waiting to be explored.

Victoria Falls Rainforest, An Area of Outstanding Beauty

This abundant evergreen vegetation is known as the Victoria Falls Rainforest and is home to a great variety of wildlife, birdlife, insects and amphibians. The Rainforest at the falls is unique in that the forest is sustained as follows.

There is something almost supernaturally beautiful about the Victoria Falls in the African nation of Zimbabwe.

From the main gorge, the powerful waters rush down into a distant void far below, the raging spray resulting from the falling mass of water that rises and condenses into small droplets forming a constant shower in certain areas around the Falls.

An Evergreen Rainforest at Victoria Falls

Even though the ensuing habitat near the Victoria Falls is not a rain forest by strict definition, the results are the same, Namely dense vegetation that stays green throughout the year.

The rainforest area of Victoria Falls is bursting with many unique species of plants, flora and fauna. Travelers may wander amongst the Fig, Mahogany and Date Palm groves. All the while gazing in awe at the falls from magnificent standing and observational viewpoints.

Many species of wild birds, insects and small mammals may be observed beneath the protective canopy of the rainforest.

The type of vegetation found in the Victoria Falls Rainforest is an extension of the riverbanks of the Zambezi and the type of trees and shrubs that grow here are also seen upstream of the Falls.

Victoria Falls Videos

Cast eyes upon the magnificent Victoria Falls and rainforest. We may not all be able to travel to the vicinity of the Victoria Falls but we can sure watch the roaring, thundering waters of the falls from home.

A Rainforest That Actually Moves

Another interesting fact about the rainforest at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is that evidence shows that the rainforest has been migrating over time. The forest vegetation has moved upstream with the waterfall, carving its tracks through the basaltic rock that is found here.

The rainforest area of Victoria Falls is bursting with many unique species of plants, flora and fauna.

The Batoka Gorge at Victoria Falls

The result of the migration is the Batoka Gorge, with its twisted appearance. A walk through the rainforest holds many surprises and attractions for visitors. Some of the best ones being the 17 various viewpoints that give you panoramic views of the entire Waterfall.

Visitors to the Batoka Gorge will also experience amazing views of the Victoria Falls from the railway bridge. What makes the rainforest even more special, are the moonbows that can be seen from here during full moon. A moonbow is a lunar white rainbow which is a magnificent and unusual sight of nature to behold.

Visitors to the Batoka Gorge will also experience amazing views of the Victoria Falls from the railway bridge.

The Victoria Rainforest is open to tourists and explorers visiting the national park across three nights a month. During this time experience tours to showcase the lunar white rainbows which are produced by the moonlight refracting off the mist of the Falls.

Just a short 7 minute walk from the Ilala Lodge Hotel will get you to the rainforest to experience the moonbows, rainforests and smoke that thunders throughout.

A truly magical travel experience at the Victoria Falls rainforest and as close to the power and natural beauty of mother nature as one can ever hope to be.

Further Reading

If you think you know all there is to know about waterfalls of the world and their surroundings, including the stunning Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe then try our Waterfalls Quiz. See how well you score in the nature quiz when it comes to understanding waterfalls.

Or alternatively browse the top 15 most awesome waterfalls of the world and learn more about these powerful forces of nature to see what you are missing. Learning about waterfalls is an educational journey well worth exploring.

Chris is an avid travel writer who enjoys exploring the globe and writing about his exciting travel experiences. Chris produces some of the in depth travel feature articles and interviews here at Gloholiday.

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